<?xml version='1.0' encoding='UTF-8'?><?xml-stylesheet href="http://www.blogger.com/styles/atom.css" type="text/css"?><feed xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom' xmlns:openSearch='http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/' xmlns:georss='http://www.georss.org/georss' xmlns:gd='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005' xmlns:thr='http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0'><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028</id><updated>2011-07-28T07:59:18.206-05:00</updated><category term='honor'/><category term='colonies'/><category term='lunchroom'/><category term='education'/><category term='encourage'/><category term='God&apos;s Plan'/><category term='responsibility'/><category term='respectful'/><category term='Charlie Brown'/><category term='Family'/><category term='books'/><category term='newspapers in education'/><category term='reputation'/><category term='Veteran'/><category term='encouragement'/><category term='courage'/><category term='fund raiser'/><category term='column'/><category 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term='cowards'/><category term='giving'/><category term='titles'/><category term='Melting Pot'/><category term='laugh'/><category term='helping'/><category term='school'/><category term='old-fashioned'/><category term='Patriots'/><category term='TV specials'/><category term='compassion'/><category term='depressed'/><category term='Branson'/><category term='initiative'/><category term='parents'/><category term='Noah'/><category term='friendship'/><category term='classroom'/><category term='respect'/><category term='church'/><category term='character traits'/><category term='discipline'/><category term='play'/><category term='optimism'/><category term='teach'/><category term='millionaire'/><category term='cash'/><category term='fun'/><category term='military service'/><category term='integrity'/><category term='Rowdy Raccoon'/><category term='good quality'/><category term='character'/><category term='Donna Braymer'/><category term='Fathers Day'/><category term='Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospital'/><title type='text'>Donna Braymer</title><subtitle type='html'>A fun blog from a woman that loves a mischievous raccoon.</subtitle><link rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#feed' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default?max-results=100'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/'/><link rel='hub' href='http://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com/'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><generator version='7.00' uri='http://www.blogger.com'>Blogger</generator><openSearch:totalResults>19</openSearch:totalResults><openSearch:startIndex>1</openSearch:startIndex><openSearch:itemsPerPage>100</openSearch:itemsPerPage><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-503320395582960517</id><published>2009-10-15T22:49:00.002-05:00</published><updated>2009-10-15T22:50:59.809-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='students'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='optimism'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospital'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Rowdy Raccoon'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='newspapers in education'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='school'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character traits'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='optimistic'/><title type='text'>Optimistic vibes</title><content type='html'>By Donna Braymer&lt;br /&gt;Published by the Harrison Daily Times&lt;br /&gt;Oct. 13, 2009&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Whom do you enjoy being around? A person that grumbles, expects the&lt;br /&gt;worse and is always negative? Or do you prefer to be around a person&lt;br /&gt;with a kind word and a positive outlook?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Today’s character word is “optimism.” One definition is, “a general&lt;br /&gt;disposition to expect the best in all things.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here are some examples of statements we hear all the time. You decide&lt;br /&gt;which ones are optimistic:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• Oh no. It’s Monday again.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• That teacher always gives bad tests.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• Yes, we have some crime in our country, but look at all the good&lt;br /&gt;things being done.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• Since the sun is shining, I’m going to send these 25 brats outside.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• He is a difficult teacher, but I am learning a lot.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• We are in a beautiful area of the country, and many people want to&lt;br /&gt;live here.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• That team always loses.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• Yes, you accidentally spilled your milk, but at least we have more.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• I can never get an “A” on a paper.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• Mondays are like a blank piece of paper, just waiting for me to fill&lt;br /&gt;them up with good things.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• I don’t like strangers moving into our area.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;• Winter will be cold, but the snow gives us some beautiful days and&lt;br /&gt;is so good for the soil.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It’s all how you look at every situation. I think being negative is a&lt;br /&gt;way for some people to get attention — but that’s not what I want to&lt;br /&gt;be known for. Listen to yourself. Are you optimistic?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-503320395582960517?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/503320395582960517/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=503320395582960517' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/503320395582960517'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/503320395582960517'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2009/10/optimistic-vibes.html' title='Optimistic vibes'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-9000938971138901440</id><published>2009-10-07T09:40:00.002-05:00</published><updated>2009-10-07T09:42:26.476-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='students'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='millionaire'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospital'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='classroom'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='saving money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character traits'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='integrity'/><title type='text'>Millionaire Integrity</title><content type='html'>By Donna Braymer&lt;br /&gt;Published 10.6.09&lt;br /&gt;Harrison Daily Times&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I love to hear what books successful people are reading. Several&lt;br /&gt;people have mentioned the two books by Dr. Thomas J. Stanley, “The&lt;br /&gt;Millionaire Mind” and “The Millionaire Next Door.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Of the thousands of completed responses for his study, most were&lt;br /&gt;first-generation millionaires. They did not inherit the money, but&lt;br /&gt;began their own companies or invested wisely from a young age and&lt;br /&gt;never spent more than they made.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;They were asked, “What are the top five factors important in&lt;br /&gt;explaining your economic success?” The number one factor was integrity&lt;br /&gt;— being honest with all people.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Surprised? Did you think millionaires would lie, cheat, steal and&lt;br /&gt;gamble their way to the top? No, they don’t. Luck was number 27 on the&lt;br /&gt;list.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Discipline — applying self control — was their second choice. Social&lt;br /&gt;skills — getting along with people — was the third. A supportive&lt;br /&gt;spouse was number four, and hard work —more than most people — was the&lt;br /&gt;number five.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;All of these, with the exception of a supportive spouse, are character&lt;br /&gt;traits students can develop right now. Interested in being a&lt;br /&gt;millionaire?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most of the millionaires also had strong leadership qualities. “We&lt;br /&gt;have the ability to sell our ideas to our employees and suppliers and&lt;br /&gt;our products to carefully targeted audiences,” Stanley quotes a group&lt;br /&gt;of millionaires. “We provide a product or service that has strong&lt;br /&gt;demand, but few suppliers to fill that demand. We do not follow the&lt;br /&gt;crowd.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Integrity — being honest with all people, can affect your bank account.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-9000938971138901440?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/9000938971138901440/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=9000938971138901440' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/9000938971138901440'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/9000938971138901440'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2009/10/millionaire-integrity.html' title='Millionaire Integrity'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-2938485912094791692</id><published>2009-09-28T20:21:00.003-05:00</published><updated>2009-09-28T20:27:15.193-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospital'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='lies'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='honesty'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='truth'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Rowdy Raccoon'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='reputation'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Kids'/><title type='text'>A little lie won't hurt. Will it?</title><content type='html'>By Donna Braymer&lt;br /&gt;Published by the Harrison Daily Times&lt;br /&gt;Sept. 29, 2009&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What’s wrong with a little lie every now and then? It is certainly&lt;br /&gt;easy to do. But a lie is still wrong, whether little or big. Why?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Honesty is an very important character trait. Once you have a&lt;br /&gt;reputation for not telling the truth, it’s hard to convince people you&lt;br /&gt;have changed.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;People around you need to know they can trust you, and can always&lt;br /&gt;believe what you say.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;To my shame, as a teenager, I was very good at not telling a lie, but&lt;br /&gt;also not telling the whole truth. That is just as wrong.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Once you start telling small lies, it gets easier and easier to&lt;br /&gt;continue the deception. I’ve known some people who have told enough&lt;br /&gt;lies, they aren’t sure what the truth really is.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It’s often said, “Tell a lie long enough and loud enough, and people&lt;br /&gt;will take it for truth.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sometimes we tell ourselves lies, which are also dangerous. We think&lt;br /&gt;we are not very smart, or put ourselves down for making a mistake. If&lt;br /&gt;you constantly bombard your inner self with negative thoughts, you&lt;br /&gt;will become what you think and be very miserable.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Small lies turn into big lies and lots of complications. Learn to&lt;br /&gt;always tell the truth, to yourself and others. You are human. When you&lt;br /&gt;make a mistake, admit it. Don’t blame others — be honest. Take&lt;br /&gt;responsibility and make wise, honest choices.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-2938485912094791692?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/2938485912094791692/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=2938485912094791692' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/2938485912094791692'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/2938485912094791692'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2009/09/little-lie-wont-hurt-will-it.html' title='A little lie won&apos;t hurt. Will it?'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-8830347421989791380</id><published>2009-09-21T22:45:00.003-05:00</published><updated>2009-09-21T22:47:30.752-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='colonies'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='work environment'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Family'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='parents'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospital'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='school'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='cooperation'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='ants'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='teach'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character traits'/><title type='text'>Cooperation</title><content type='html'>Cooperation is the key!&lt;br /&gt;Published in the Harrison Daily Times&lt;br /&gt;9.22.09&lt;br /&gt;By Donna C. Braymer&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Have you ever watched an ant farm at work? All of the ants cooperate with&lt;br /&gt;each other to prepare for their daily and future survival. They are&lt;br /&gt;such hard workers, it is interesting they do not have a “boss” or&lt;br /&gt;“teacher” standing over them watching every move.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;They live in colonies, and Wikipedia says, “The colonies are sometimes&lt;br /&gt;described as superorganisms because the ants appear to operate as a&lt;br /&gt;unified entity, collectively working together to support the colony.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Cooperation is essential in a home, school and work environment.&lt;br /&gt;Another definition states cooperation as being the association of&lt;br /&gt;persons or businesses for common, usually economic, benefit.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Everyone benefits when the group cooperates. A classroom benefits&lt;br /&gt;because everyone learns and enjoys the process.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A business benefits because customers want to come back and spend more&lt;br /&gt;money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The home benefits because we enjoy eating meals, wearing clean clothes&lt;br /&gt;and doing fun activities as a family. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Work is involved in each aspect of cooperation. Where there is work,&lt;br /&gt;there is reward. Businesses pass out paychecks and bonuses for hard&lt;br /&gt;work. Schoolteachers pass out grades and year-end promotions for&lt;br /&gt;learning well done. Cooperation helps families grow closer and enjoy&lt;br /&gt;their time together.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;See if you can spot someone cooperating today and give them a high&lt;br /&gt;five!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-8830347421989791380?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/8830347421989791380/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=8830347421989791380' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/8830347421989791380'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/8830347421989791380'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2009/09/cooperation.html' title='Cooperation'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-8120119926894105336</id><published>2009-09-15T08:22:00.002-05:00</published><updated>2009-09-15T08:24:25.727-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='cowards'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='respect'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Patriots'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospital'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='military service'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='responsibility'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='attitude'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Kids'/><title type='text'>Patriots Make A Differance</title><content type='html'>Patriots make a difference&lt;br /&gt;Published in the Harrison Daily Times 9.15.09&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Last Friday the United States remembered the attack our nation&lt;br /&gt;suffered eight years ago on September 11, 2001.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The tragic event has been turned into a day to remember the&lt;br /&gt;individuals that place their lives on the line to protect freedom and&lt;br /&gt;provide safety.   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I am very thankful for the brave men and women that serve in our&lt;br /&gt;military, and provide local emergency help and protection. Sometimes&lt;br /&gt;the question is asked, “Why would you want to have a job that could be&lt;br /&gt;dangerous?”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;During our life time, even working in a school can be considered a&lt;br /&gt;dangerous job. I believe people choose a profession because they want&lt;br /&gt;to make a difference. Everyone wants to feel needed and make like&lt;br /&gt;their life count.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Does this line of thought apply to students? Yes it sure does. I still&lt;br /&gt;remember students that were kind, helpful and protective. I’m sure you&lt;br /&gt;know some that are cruel bullies, always demanding attention, and&lt;br /&gt;causing problems.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What would our world be like if today’s students determined to be&lt;br /&gt;young patriots? To have the needs of others put before their own. To&lt;br /&gt;care for other people’s property and to respect authority. It is very&lt;br /&gt;possible. Start by doing something for someone else, without expecting&lt;br /&gt;any recognition. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Cowards attacked our nation and changed our world forever. Be a brave&lt;br /&gt;patriot and determine to make a difference in a good way.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-8120119926894105336?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/8120119926894105336/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=8120119926894105336' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/8120119926894105336'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/8120119926894105336'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2009/09/patriots-make-differance.html' title='Patriots Make A Differance'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-4949184936370946227</id><published>2009-07-31T15:38:00.004-05:00</published><updated>2009-07-31T15:44:42.263-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='fund raiser'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospital'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Donna Braymer'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Rowdy Raccoon'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='school'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character traits'/><title type='text'>Where has the summer gone?</title><content type='html'>I don't know about you, but the summer is almost gone! I know it's just July 30, but still, school activities are already getting started.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Rowdy and I have been very busy this summer starting the promotion of his newest book, Rowdy Raccoon and the Turtle Who Wanted To Fly.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The publisher, her staff, and the artist did a tremendous job on the 32-page, hard cover...all color book!! Can you tell I'm excited?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I'm also thrilled that Arkansas Children's Hospital has accepted Rowdy as a fund-raising partner. So a portion of the proceeds from my personal book sales, is donated to the hospital. Very exciting!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Help us get the word out on the national scene. The book is available everywhere! Just ask for it, if your favorite store doesn't have it yet.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Also ask at your library! &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you'd like an autographed copy to a special child in your life, just purchase from Rowdy's web page. (www.RowdyRaccoon.com)&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Also, Rowdy has ventured into the FaceBook scene. Sign up for his fan club at "Children's Book for Character."&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One more thing...if you are interested in using Rowdy as a fund-raiser for your school or organization just give me an email and we'll talk!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Until next time....&lt;br /&gt;Donna&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-4949184936370946227?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/4949184936370946227/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=4949184936370946227' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/4949184936370946227'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/4949184936370946227'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2009/07/where-has-summer-gone.html' title='Where has the summer gone?'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-2976103819822301781</id><published>2009-06-04T22:12:00.004-05:00</published><updated>2009-06-04T22:24:36.209-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospital'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Rowdy Raccoon'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Raccoon'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='books'/><title type='text'>Heading to Arkansas Children's Hospital</title><content type='html'>&lt;a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SiiOwN6KXhI/AAAAAAAAAC8/PRy2RI5SeTA/s1600-h/Rowdy_Fly_Sample_Page_Two.jpg"&gt;&lt;img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 160px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SiiOwN6KXhI/AAAAAAAAAC8/PRy2RI5SeTA/s320/Rowdy_Fly_Sample_Page_Two.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343677916893568530" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Rowdy and I will leave Friday for a trip to Little Rock for the Circle of Friends meeting at Arkansas Children's Hospital. I feel so honored to be a part of this wonderful group of volunteers that give of their time and money to raise funds for the hospital. This will be my first time to visit the hospital, and I'm looking forward to the tour. I hope I have the opportunity to let some children give Rowdy a hug and get a book mark.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Arkansas Children's Hospital has approved me as a partner to represent the hospital with Rowdy at fund-raising events. So a portion of the proceeds of the new book, Rowdy Raccoon and the Turtle Who Wanted To Fly will be donated to the hospital. I'm very exctied about this partnership. They are such a worthy cause! Plus I'm excited because the new book looks so great. I can hardly wait!!! It will be out in just days. You can pre-order a copy from Rowdy's web page or Amazon.com.&lt;br /&gt;Later!&lt;br /&gt;db&lt;br /&gt;www.RowdyRaccoon.com&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-2976103819822301781?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/2976103819822301781/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=2976103819822301781' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/2976103819822301781'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/2976103819822301781'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2009/06/heading-to-arkansas-childrens-hospital.html' title='Heading to Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospital'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media='http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/' url='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SiiOwN6KXhI/AAAAAAAAAC8/PRy2RI5SeTA/s72-c/Rowdy_Fly_Sample_Page_Two.jpg' height='72' width='72'/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-2386555819587765735</id><published>2009-06-04T21:00:00.004-05:00</published><updated>2009-06-04T21:08:35.443-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='play'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='courage'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='fun'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='laugh'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='good character'/><title type='text'>Courage</title><content type='html'>Courage&lt;br /&gt;Character Column published on the NIE page of the Harrison Daily Times&lt;br /&gt;Jan. 08&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you afraid of something? One definition for courage is “the ability to do something that frightens one or to have strength in the face of pain or grief.” &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Does giving a report to the classroom make you break out in a sweat?&lt;br /&gt;Being nervous and afraid is a normal response. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When it comes to public speaking, the more prepared you are, the more&lt;br /&gt;you practice, the better off you will be. It really will be easier. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I have a good friend that would be physically ill if he knew he had to&lt;br /&gt;give a report to the class. Now he speaks in front of crowds all the&lt;br /&gt;time, and loves it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Just remember to be a kind listener and not laugh or make fun of the&lt;br /&gt;person giving a report. Treat the person speaking the way you want to&lt;br /&gt;be treated when it is your turn.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sometimes it takes courage to stand up for what is right, and not&lt;br /&gt;making fun of others is definitely the right thing to do.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Some fear is good. We should be afraid to play in the street because&lt;br /&gt;we could be ran over. If your fear can be overcome, have the courage&lt;br /&gt;to do so.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-2386555819587765735?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/2386555819587765735/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=2386555819587765735' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/2386555819587765735'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/2386555819587765735'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2009/06/courage.html' title='Courage'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-6906885841476298880</id><published>2008-12-16T18:38:00.004-06:00</published><updated>2008-12-16T18:42:42.310-06:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='titles'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='honor'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='respectful'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='job interview'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='adults'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='clothing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='school'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character traits'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='church'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='respect'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='life-long learner'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='gum'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='attitude'/><title type='text'>Respect</title><content type='html'>By: Donna Braymer&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Copyright Harrison Daily Times&lt;br /&gt;Published 12.9.08&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A common word in character development for school districts is respect. It may be on everyone’s list to study, but it’s not seen inaction as often as it should be.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Some would call me “old fashioned” but I still feel people deserve respect when you call them by name. You can never go wrong calling someone, Mr., Mrs., or Ms. and then adding their last name.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If they want you to call them by their first name, they can issue that invitation. Respect can also be shown by the way you are dressed. Unless an event is listed as very casual, you should dress in your best, or at least the ‘good clothes.'&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I remember when everyone had church clothes, play clothes and school clothes. If you are going into a court room, play clothes would not show the proper respect for the judge and the law.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When it’s time for a job interview, remember to show respect in how you speak, your clothing and actions. Chewing gum like a cow chews her cud does not make a good impression on a potential employer.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You can also show respect to yourself. Stay away from harmful activities, drugs and be a respectful life-long learner.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-6906885841476298880?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/6906885841476298880/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=6906885841476298880' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/6906885841476298880'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/6906885841476298880'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/12/respect.html' title='Respect'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-2125368681170283676</id><published>2008-12-16T18:32:00.004-06:00</published><updated>2008-12-16T18:37:50.846-06:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='giving'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='commercialism'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Charlie Brown'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='good quality'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='cash'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='gifts'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='depressed'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='TV specials'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Christmas'/><title type='text'>A Charlie Brown Christmas</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="center"&gt;Copyright Harrison Daily Times&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Published 12.16.2008&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One of my favorite television specials is “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Creator Charles Schultz allows the main character to express his sadness at what Christmas has become.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Charlie Brown is disappointed that the girl he cares about does not care enough to send him a Christmas card; even with lots of hints dropped her direction.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;His little sister wants to write a letter to Santa demanding cash divided into tens and twenties. Even Snoopy goes crazy decorating his dog house with Christmas lights.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Upon the advice of Lucy, he gets involved in directing a play aboutthe Nativity. He is determined to share the true meaning of Christmas, in spite of everyone’s focus in other directions.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Charlie gets frustrated at the gang and ends up shouting, “Does anyone know the true meaning of Christmas?”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Linus quietly steps forward and reads the true meaning of Christmasfrom Luke, Chapter 2, of the Bible. Charlie learns commercialism cannot ruin his Christmas.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Christmas is better when we remember the first gift given. Give yourfamily the gift of your time and talents. Read a book to an elderly friend. Clean out the car or your bedroom. Share the true meaning of Christmas.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-2125368681170283676?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/2125368681170283676/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=2125368681170283676' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/2125368681170283676'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/2125368681170283676'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/12/charlie-brown-christmas.html' title='A Charlie Brown Christmas'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-8456298073344897607</id><published>2008-12-03T08:05:00.005-06:00</published><updated>2008-12-03T08:10:48.083-06:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='helping'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='volunteer'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='compassion'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Arkansas Children&apos;s Hospital'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='friendship'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='classroom'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='lunchroom'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Salvation Army'/><title type='text'>Compassion</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="center"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Compassion&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Copyright Harrison Daily Times&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Published 12.2.08&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The needs and suffering of others are on our minds more during the Christmas season. But compassion for others is something we can feel, and act on, at any time.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Our community is known for helping others, whether it’s gathering newtoys for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, or helping a family with items after a fire, tornado or hurricane.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The definition for compassion includes understanding the suffering ofothers and wanting to do something about it. I may not totally understand all kinds suffering because I haven’t experienced it. But I can still be involved and help someone through their situation.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;We can donate a new toy. We can drop some coins or cash into the Salvation Army’s red buckets. We can volunteer our time, pick up trash and help those in need.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In the classroom, we can help someone with a project that seems overwhelming or have compassion on a new student by showing them around and introducing others.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;We can invite a new friend to play onthe playground, or eat lunch with our favorite friends.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When we think about how it would feel to be in their situation, we can feel compassion. But it’s even better to do something about it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Donna Braymer&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-8456298073344897607?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/8456298073344897607/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=8456298073344897607' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/8456298073344897607'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/8456298073344897607'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/12/compassion.html' title='Compassion'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-187454280493438393</id><published>2008-11-11T19:32:00.003-06:00</published><updated>2008-11-11T19:35:01.572-06:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Melting Pot'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Veteran'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='students'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Patriotism'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Patriot'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Veterans Day'/><title type='text'>Patriotism</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="center"&gt;Patriotism&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Copyright Harrison Daily Times&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Nov. 11. 2008&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Today we honor our veterans — men and women who have served our country to provide and protect our freedom.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I asked Kendra Rudd, a 17 year old Green Forest senior, to share her thoughts on patriotism. Rudd said, “Patriots believe that America is worthy of their protection, their love. Patriotism is found in many forms — a flag flying outside of a home, a ‘God Bless America’ bumper sticker or a star spangled red, white and blue cookie.“&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But the ultimate symbol of patriotism is offering one’s life for the protection of America and her people. To sacrifice the comfort of home, the reassuring, physical closeness of family, friends and knowingly venture into danger is indeed an act of patriotism.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The dictionary states a patriot is a person who loves their country and, if necessary will fight for it. Being patriotic is showing love for your country and pride in it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;We do live in the greatest nation in the world, in spite of our faults. We are a nation made up of imperfect individuals of all nationalities and backgrounds. The term “melting pot” describes us well.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Just remember, when we’ve been melted together into one nation, we are no longer separate entities. We become “one nation, under God.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-187454280493438393?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/187454280493438393/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=187454280493438393' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/187454280493438393'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/187454280493438393'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/11/patriotism.html' title='Patriotism'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-6391810132985107600</id><published>2008-10-28T21:47:00.004-05:00</published><updated>2008-10-28T21:54:05.125-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='iPod'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='discipline'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='saving money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='old-fashioned'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='credit card'/><title type='text'>Discipline</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="center"&gt;By Donna Braymer&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Copyright by the Harrison Daily Times&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Published 10.28.08&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The phrase “old-fashioned discipline” was said to me last week, and it stuck in my head.Why would doing the right thing at the right time be “old-fashioned?”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I guess because we live in a microwave society, we have lost the discipline of making ourselves “wait.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving our money for something we want instead of using Mom’s credit card would be an example. Getting some extra jobs around the neighborhood to purchase your own iPod will make it even more enjoyable to you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Going into the seventh grade, when I wanted contact lenses, my eye doctor said I had to earn half of the money myself, so I had to baby-sit like crazy that summer to earn $90. My parents could have paid for the whole amount; why did he make me do that? Because he knew if I had to work hard to pay for them, I would also have the discipline to take care of them and not damage my eyes.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The dictionary states discipline is “training to act in accordance with rules, or the activity, exercise or regimen that develops or improves a skill.” Let’s make discipline a popular word and activity again.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Donna Braymer&lt;br /&gt;Business Editor&lt;br /&gt;Harrison Daily Times&lt;br /&gt;P.O. Box 40Harrison, AR 72602&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.harrisondaily.com/"&gt;http://www.harrisondaily.com/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;870-743-0605 Direct Line&lt;br /&gt;870-741-2325 HDT Office&lt;br /&gt;870-741-5632 Fax&lt;br /&gt;870-741-2313 After Hours Newsroom&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-6391810132985107600?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/6391810132985107600/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=6391810132985107600' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/6391810132985107600'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/6391810132985107600'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/10/discipline.html' title='Discipline'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-8006203078641771863</id><published>2008-10-22T09:08:00.005-05:00</published><updated>2008-10-22T09:52:00.310-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='students'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='encourage'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='education'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='encouragement'/><title type='text'>Let Encouragement Spill Over</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="center"&gt; &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;By DONNA BRAYMER&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Copyright by the Harrison Daily Times&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I love encouragement. I also love to encourage.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One definition stated, “Support that inspires confidence and a will to continue or develop.”When we share an encouraging word with someone, it usually makes them smile, or at least nod their head. Giving someone hope, confidence or courage only makes the world a better place.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;How does that apply to us? If a fellow student is afraid to climb the ladder to the slide, encourage them to at least try. Tell them you will be right there to make sure they do not fall, and you will be there to share their victory and accomplishment. You have just shared some encouragement and inspired courage.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If a new student looks lost in a hallway, offer directions.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Encouragement can also be shared without a word spoken. A friendly smile works wonders. I’ve been in BIG cities where it seems no one smiles. It becomes a game to exchange a smile.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Encouragement is not expensive. Just a moment of your time and awareness. It doesn’t take away from who you are, but it does make you a better person. Look around. Everyone needs encouragement, even the person that pours it out every day.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Printed on the Newspapers In Education page of the Harrison Daily Times on 9.9.08.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-8006203078641771863?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/8006203078641771863/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=8006203078641771863' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/8006203078641771863'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/8006203078641771863'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/10/let-encouragement-spill-over.html' title='Let Encouragement Spill Over'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-6252873588646177513</id><published>2008-10-15T11:47:00.007-05:00</published><updated>2008-10-15T11:51:37.248-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='character'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='initiative'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='telephone'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='inventions'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='column'/><title type='text'>Initiative Column</title><content type='html'>This character column was published on the NIE (Newspapers in Education) page of  the Harrison Daily Times on Tuesday, October 7, 2008.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Initiative changes school, world&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;By Donna Braymer&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Copywrite 2008&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Harrison Daily Times&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A student recently took the initiative to confront an issue she felt was wrong at her school. Though ridiculed and bullied by other students, she remained true to the issues of right and wrong. You go girl!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Initiative means the ability to act independently with a fresh approach to a problem before others do.It is easy to get disgusted and give up. But we can’t. Each day has a purpose and plan. Make your school a better place, or invent something that changes the world. Do something to make a difference on this earth with the time you are here. Get involved. Motivate others. Be kind. Take time to care. Change takes initiative.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The timeline of the telephone makes an interesting Internet search. Several men are credited with inventing and developing different aspects of the communication system over many hundreds of years.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Bottom line....I’m thankful for each persons’ initiative to pursue their ideas. Now we can carry a small phone in our pocket and speak to someone around the world. We’ve come a long way from strings and cans.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Congratulations to the initiative of the student. Her world is a better place.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-6252873588646177513?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/6252873588646177513/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=6252873588646177513' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/6252873588646177513'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/6252873588646177513'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/10/initiative-column.html' title='Initiative Column'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-8742911345864000077</id><published>2008-09-06T23:52:00.002-05:00</published><updated>2008-09-06T23:56:44.279-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='blessings'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='birthday'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='grandparents'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='God'/><title type='text'>Happy Birthday to Me!</title><content type='html'>It is 37 minutes until my birthday. The number sounds old, when said outloud. But I don’t feel old. Well, of course I don’t stand on my bicycle seat and sail down the street with my hands in the air anymore like a circus performer, but I sure don’t feel old enough to be a grandmother.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But in all reality, I may have only lived half of my life at this point. Think of the people I have been blessed to meet; all the way from my great-grandparents to our only grandchild Chloe, at this point in time.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I’ve shaken hands with some famous people and seen the sights of New York City, Lima, Peru, Denver, LA, Hollywood, San Diego, Mexico, Detroit, Miami, Disney, and my birth city, Long Beach, California, just to name a few.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I’ve had a lot of boy friends that paved the way for the true love that I married 34 years ago. Wow…I’ve been married a lot longer than I was ever single.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Howard and I are so blessed to have been given three incredible sons, with the impeccable good taste to choose three of the Godliest women on the planet to be our daughters.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;And then eventually, and well worth the wait, our first granddaughter Chloe Alexandra. In just a few minutes, not only will it be my birthday, but Grandparents Day. What an unspeakable joy to see her through these eyes. Just a precious sponge of energy, soaking up information as fast and furious as it comes to her. Learning something new every moment, it seems.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Life is such a wonderful gift. You really can’t help but to smile when you look at her. And especially when she gives you a private grin, full of mischievous secrets.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;My ‘daughters’ and Chloe are the wonderful blessings of surviving raising three boys….and I had my doubts if we would survive!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I still can’t believe I’m going to be another year older. Each year, day, moment and breath is a very special gift from God. Forgive me for wasting so many breaths on complaining, being ungrateful and unwise.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Help me to continue to appreciate each day you give me and complete the tasks that are on the ‘Heavenly to do’ list. I don’t want to miss out on the other blessings you have in store for me.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If this is only the beginning, I am going to be amazed in 10 years, 20 years and plus, what you have allowed me to see and do-hopefully all for your honor and glory.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Happy Birthday to me!&lt;br /&gt;db&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-8742911345864000077?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/8742911345864000077/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=8742911345864000077' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/8742911345864000077'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/8742911345864000077'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/09/happy-birthday-to-me.html' title='Happy Birthday to Me!'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-524423434917707201</id><published>2008-06-21T16:43:00.003-05:00</published><updated>2008-06-21T16:55:32.078-05:00</updated><title type='text'>Putting Out Fires</title><content type='html'>&lt;em&gt;I have always wondered how a fire extinguisher worked and if necessary, would I have the strength to operate it.&lt;/em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;&lt;/em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;em&gt;I got my opportunity! Since I work at the newspaper, I asked the Fire Chief that often comes in, if they ever had training classes. He was excited to send a Lt. that works with children and groups to teach fire prevention. So yesterday, they brought the firetruck to the newspaper and taught us about fire extinguishers.  I loved it!!! And I got to practice with one with chemicals and one with water! So, here's the article that will be published in the Harrison Daily Times about fire extinguishers!&lt;/em&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Times staff trained in fighting fires&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;By DONNA &lt;span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"&gt;BRAYMER&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Times Staff- &lt;a href="mailto:donnab@harrisondaily.com"&gt;donnab@harrisondaily.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;“Pull and drop the pin. Grab the hose, and aim at the base of the fire. With a sweeping motion squeeze the handle in short bursts and aim at the base of the fire.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Those directions were repeated many times as Lt. Clint Nichols and firefighter Preston Phillips instructed the Times staff on how to use a fire extinguisher.Many staff members admitted they had never used an extinguisher but had always wondered how it operated and were curious if they would be able to use it in an emergency situation.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Business Manager Carol Lawson carries an extinguisher in her car after helplessly witnessing a man’s furniture catch on fire in the back of his pick up from a stray cigarette butt. “Now I keep one in the car, but I’&lt;span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"&gt;ve&lt;/span&gt; never had to use it.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another staff member was curious as to the hand strength it required to operate the handle and did not know for sure how to “pull the pin.” She continued, “I know I can do this now, if I have to.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Nichols explained the basic mechanics of a fire extinguisher. “The most common are ‘ABC’ kinds of fire.”The ‘A’ works on trash, wood and paper. ‘B’ works on grease and liquids. ‘C’ is for electrical equipment and a ‘D’ extinguisher works on combustible metals.The most common combination to keep in a home, office or vehicle is the ‘ABC’ type.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A spokesperson from Harrison Fire Extinguisher said federal guidelines state any extinguisher made in 1984 or earlier needs to be thrown away. They also have a program to routinely check extinguishers.Some experts suggest getting a new one at least every 10 years. A small gauge on most brands and shows when it is losing charge and needs to be replaced.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are various sizes of personal extinguishers now available to consumers. It is also a good idea to write the date of purchase on the extinguisher. The small one the Times staff used costs about $15 at hardware and discount stores.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Nichols reminded the group, “That is a small price to pay for your safety.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Nichols and his team enjoy teaching fire prevention and safety to all ages of groups, schools and businesses. He has plastic fire helmets, stickers and brochures to distribute and the hands-on experience is valuable information for listeners.“Fire can double in size every minute. The Middle School students are amazed when we show them a video of a house fire and how quickly it can get out of hand.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;With most home furnishings made of synthetic materials, “rescue yourself” is the best way to survive a home or office fire. When carpet fibers, upholstery and other products catch on fire they produce cyanide gas which is deadly.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;“We recommend you keep an extinguisher in a convenient place, but not right next to area where a fire might occur. If it is located close to the stove, you might not be able to get to it.”Nichols suggested if a small fire breaks out, one person grab the fire extinguisher and the other call 9-1-1.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Extinguishers have a limited amount of powder and need to be abandoned if the fire spreads too quickly. “Aim for the base of the fire. Don’t chase the flames.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Because an extinguisher can exert force and spread a grease fire, it is suggested to keep a pizza pan, or lid handy when cooking on top the stove to extinguish a flame. If a fire breaks out in the oven, or toaster oven, the best plan is to keep the door shut, and unplug the electrical appliance if possible.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The Harrison Fire Department has a plan in place to “blitz a fire,” Nichols explained. “When we get a call for a fire, the first truck arrives on the scene within three minutes or less, &lt;span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"&gt;assesses&lt;/span&gt; the situation and begins fighting the fire.“The second truck connects to the closest fire hydrant and supplies additional water. The third truck brings extra man power and sometimes cuts a hole in the roof to allow some of the smoke and heat to escape, aiding firefighters inside the structure.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In a house fire, smoke and fire can easily raise the temperature to 1,000 degrees.In a business or home setting, it is important to know where the extinguishers are located. Pull the pin and drop it, so you have a hand available to grab the hose and aim at the base of the fire. After the pin is removed, the other hand can begin squeezing the handle in short bursts to release the chemicals on the fire.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In a home or business, having a meeting place outside of the structure and far enough away from the fire is a very wise idea. Then firefighters know if someone could still be in the building. A new thermal imagery device is now available to the Fire Department and makes it much easier to spot a person inside a burning structure.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Homeowners need to know for sure if their home is located in the city limits or in the county. Firefighters respond to calls within the city limits for free.If a residence or business is outside the city limits, it is required by state law to register with a rural fire department. A small yearly fee to the rural fire department will avoid an excessive expensive if called to respond to a fire.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Nichols said to call the fire department on the non-emergency line at 741-6384 for any questions or clarifications.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;He also informed the group about free smoke detectors. “We have a program in place that allows us to give away smoke detectors.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Bottom line. Have smoke detectors in place with charged batteries. Know where a fire extinguisher is located and how to use it properly. Remember the fire department’s key phrase “rescue yourself.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;To ask an non-emergency question to the fire department call 741-741-6384 and report a fire or report any emergency always dial 9-1-1. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-524423434917707201?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/524423434917707201/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=524423434917707201' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/524423434917707201'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/524423434917707201'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/06/putting-out-fires.html' title='Putting Out Fires'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-1213821225819950650</id><published>2008-06-12T20:26:00.002-05:00</published><updated>2008-06-12T20:28:12.877-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Family'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Raccoon'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Fathers Day'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Braymer'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Falwell'/><title type='text'>XM Radio Interview!</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="center"&gt;How exciting! I was on an XM Radio station again for an interview. &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;This time the subject is Father's Day!&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt; &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt; You can listen to it on the XM Satellite Channel 170 from 9-11 Eastern.&lt;br /&gt;Jerry Falwell's son is on at 9 and I'm on at 9:24 Eastern.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt; &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Happy Fathers Day!&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-1213821225819950650?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/1213821225819950650/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=1213821225819950650' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/1213821225819950650'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/1213821225819950650'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/06/xm-radio-interview.html' title='XM Radio Interview!'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1521100110761950028.post-101583801299991133</id><published>2008-06-08T15:28:00.000-05:00</published><updated>2008-06-08T15:48:43.874-05:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Noah'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='God&apos;s Plan'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Branson'/><title type='text'>It's Time!</title><content type='html'>&lt;span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"&gt;Yes, I have given in. I have had a blog site for a long time, but have kept it blank. But I do have some things to say to the world...or anyone willing to listen, or read. (Grin)&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;I am so overwhelmed by the love that God has for me. And not just me, but for each one of us. We had the opportunity to view &lt;em&gt;Noah, the Musical&lt;/em&gt; last night in Branson, Mo. JUST INCREDABLE! What an awesome job of portraying scripture and the symbolism of Noah's Ark and the salvation Jesus Christ offers. The script, actors, the live animals, the layout of the theater was just amazing. (I didn't see a raccoon in the cast, but he had to be there somewhere!)&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;Noah and his family were so faithful to do what God had called them to do. For MANY years people made fun of them building the ark. But the day did come when God shut the door and the opportunity for the people to repent was lost.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;I am reminded, the day is coming when Jesus Christ will return. But until that day, we must remain faithful to do what God has called us to do. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;What do I feel called to do? To remind people how special they are to God. He loves all ages,  including little ones. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;I want to remind children of how unique and thought out their life is. God has a plan that will amaze. I want to make sure chilren learn the tools of good character and build lives they will enjoy and will bless others.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;Thanks for reading. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;"&gt;db&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"&gt;Rowdy Raccoon wanted to share this blog site, but I don't think that is a good idea. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;www.DonnaCBraymer.com&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/1521100110761950028-101583801299991133?l=donnabraymer.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/feeds/101583801299991133/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=1521100110761950028&amp;postID=101583801299991133' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/101583801299991133'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/1521100110761950028/posts/default/101583801299991133'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://donnabraymer.blogspot.com/2008/06/its-time.html' title='It&apos;s Time!'/><author><name>Donna Braymer/Rowdy Raccoon</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/12598645600126026335</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='29' height='32' src='http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XcBj4LkUmk0/SihAbm7MLoI/AAAAAAAAACU/5_UElI2RUE0/S220/DonnaPhoto.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry></feed>
